OAKLAND COUNTY (WWJ) - The upcoming arrival of spring brings the promise of warmer weather, longer days and unsafe ice conditions on deceptive frozen surfaces.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said the time has come for outdoor winter enthusiasts to put away the snowmobiles, pack up ice fishing gear, and hang up the hockey skates; he urged everyone to stay off frozen lakes and ponds as they become unsafe with warmer daytime temperatures.
“No ice is 100 percent safe and as spring approaches and temperatures become more moderate, any kind of outdoor activity on the ice increases the risk of a tragic outcome exponentially,” Bouchard said.
Ice conditions are known to drastically change from day-to-day during this time of year, Bouchard explained. He said while search and rescue divers were out training on a frozen lake this week, they measured ice thickness in different areas which ranged from six inches thick to less than one inch.
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"It was a mess," Bouchard said. "Venturing out now on unstable and deteriorating ice puts everyone’s life in danger – yours and the rescuers.”
Dangerous ice conditions were the cause of a 911 call in Commerce Township in mid-February, where the Sheriff’s Search & Rescue Unit helped one driver after their snowmobile fell halfway through broken ice on a lake.
Bouchard said there are a few ways to identify thin or unsafe ice. People should take extra note of moving water near lakes, rivers and streams, areas that appear slushy, depressions in the snow, ice that looks white cloudy or black and ice with distinct "frazzle" patterns created by air pockets that appear on the surface as it thaws and freezes back over.
If someone happens to fall through weak ice, Bouchard strongly advises against running toward the person, but call 911. He recommends using a long object like a pole or a branch that can be held out to the victim.
The OCSO recommends these safety tips to keep in mind as spring approaches:
• If you fall through the ice, try not to panic. This will only hinder your self-rescue actions. Call out for help and kick your feet while getting your hands and then arms up onto safer ice. Carry an ice awl or a screwdriver, which will help you with your self-rescue. Continue to "swim" up onto the ice far enough to crawl or "roll-out" tosafer ice.
• Pets that venture onto unsafe ice are a major cause for many near drownings and deaths. If you find your pet has ventured out onto the ice, resist the urge to go outafter them. Stay at a safe position on shore and persuade them back to safety.
The OCSO said wildlife is more prepared for unsafe ice conditions than humans and people should stay back if they see a wild animal on frozen surfaces. Most animals like deer are strong swimmers and are suited to cold temperatures.
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